More northern residents are cashing in winning lottery tickets.
Sarah Martel of Sudbury recently won $50,000 playing a scratch ticket called Instant $2,000,000 Supreme.
“I was in a hurry the day I purchased my winning ticket. I had to pick up a birthday cake, so I scratched my ticket quickly – I didn’t even realize I won until I scanned it using the ticket checker.” said Martel.
The 37-year-old cashier was so excited to learn she had won a significant prize.
“I was freaking out and in tears while sharing the news with my family and friends. I’ve always dreamed of winning and now I’m living this dream!” said Martel.
She plans to use her winnings to take a trip, pay some bills, and help purchase a house.
The winning ticket was bought at Real Canadian Superstore on Lasalle Boulevard.
Michael Dillon of Chapleau won $100,000 playing the Encore in the May 4 Lotto 6/49 draw.
He matched six of the seven numbers in exact order to win.
His winning ticket was purchased at Esso on Causley Street in Blind River.
Finally, the biggest winner of the three is a couple from Elliot Lake.
Howard and Darla Hennessey won $226,251.50 in the same May 4 Lotto 6/49 draw.
They say despite their big windfall, they were able to remain reserved and calm after realizing they had won.
“We play Ontario 49 and Lotto 6/49, but you never actually think you’re going to win!” said Howard, a 63-year-old retiree.
Darla is a 62-year-old events coordinator.
The married parents of two have six grandchildren and plan use some of the money to donate to their favourite charities, share with family, and do some home renovations.
Their winning ticket was purchased at Hillside Shop & Save on Hillside Drive in Elliot Lake.
